Everyone has dreams and ambitions, but only some are able to achieve them. Have you wondered why? More often than not, we tend to give up amid difficulties, accept the status quo, and feel reluctant to take that next step forward. In such cases, we hit a roadblock after reaching our self-imposed limits. When we attempt to overcome them, we may even face stiff resistance, and our goals seem harder to achieve. These limitations come in different forms such as fear, doubt, or low self-esteem. They force us to think negatively about ourselves and doubt our abilities. They hold us back from realising our true potential.
When an individual sets a limit on their capacity, they rarely go beyond them. Imagine if tennis legend Roger Federer had called it quits due to his age, he never would have won the 20th Grand Slam. He pushed past the limitations of age and claimed the trophy at the age of 36. His success story teaches us that we can conquer new frontiers if we consciously step outside the confines of our self-imposed limitations.
In the words of eminent author and motivational speaker Brian Tracy, “You begin to fly when you let go of self-limiting beliefs and allow your mind and aspirations to rise to greater heights.” Wondering how you can soar high by moving past the hurdles of self-limitations? These practical tips may help you attain that goal like a champion.
Do not compare yourself to others
Comparing yourself to others is a futile exercise that does nothing but increases your dissatisfaction, lowers your self-esteem, and make you feel bad about yourself. What you are essentially doing is comparing your flaws with others’ strengths, which makes you think that they are better than you. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Everyone has their own battles to fight and goals to accomplish. When you compare yourself to others, get a clearer picture of what they have gone through to be where they are today. Redirect the focus on yourself and believe that you have the ability to overcome your own self-imposed limitations. Like leadership expert and author Robin Sharma once said, “Stop comparing yourself to others. You’ve been built to dazzle. And designed to inspire.”
Stop making assumptions
This is one of the biggest mistakes people make, which prevents them from overcoming their self-imposed limitations and achieving their goals. Unless you have the magical ability to read people’s minds, you can’t know what they are really thinking.
How many times have you assumed what the other person is thinking, and concluded without asking or telling them? Such behaviours lead to misunderstandings and can even hamper your relationships with others. In his book, The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom, author Don Miguel Ruiz gives an excellent piece of advice. He writes, “Don’t make assumptions. Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.”
Stop making assumptions, surround yourself with positive people, improve your self-image, work on your shortcomings, keep your mind open to new things, and have clarity on your goals.
Stopping assumptions allows you to approach challenges with an open mind. When you avoid assuming what you can or cannot do, you give yourself the opportunity to explore new possibilities and stretch beyond your perceived limitations.
Positive people provide encouragement, support, and a constructive environment. When you’re surrounded by positivity, you’re more likely to receive uplifting feedback and inspiration.
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